Plenty of sunshine and temperatures well above 30 degrees: Even though there are occasional brief showers that cool things down a bit, the summer of 2026 is really showing its strength—and, unfortunately, it also has its downside. The heat and the lack of rain aren’t just taking a toll on people; they’re also causing trees, bushes, and grasses to dry out. And that’s driving up the risk of wildfires.

“That is why we have decided to ban the lighting of candles and grave lights at all cemeteries in Mainz until further notice,” explains Jeanette Wetterling. It was a decision “we did not take lightly,” the CEO continued. “We know how important such a light of remembrance is for many mourners. We therefore ask for your understanding—and for you to turn to alternative forms of remembrance. Because, at the end of the day, the risk is simply too great.”